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The PARACELSUS score: a diagnostic tool for pyoderma gangrenosum
Author(s) -
Jockenhöfer F.,
Wollina U.,
Salva K.A.,
Benson S.,
Dissemond J.
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
british journal of dermatology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.304
H-Index - 179
eISSN - 1365-2133
pISSN - 0007-0963
DOI - 10.1111/bjd.17551
Subject(s) - pyoderma gangrenosum , medicine , scoring system , dermatology , diagnostic accuracy , surgery , pathology , disease
Summary Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare, treatable skin disorder that causes ulcers ‐ usually a single one but sometimes more. It is not contagious. Often it is diagnosed by ruling out other diseases with similar symptoms, and it can be misdiagnosed. The aim of this study, from Germany, was to establish a scoring system that includes symptoms and features that are specific to PG, that could easily be used in clinics to diagnose the disorder. The scoring system, called PARACELSUS, was tested on 60 participants with previously confirmed PG, and a control group of 50 patients with leg ulcers that are not caused by PG. The criteria included in the scoring system relate to how the ulcer looks, how it progresses and which drugs help clear it. The authors conclude that, based on their tests, the PARACELSUS score represents an easily implementable, effective and accurate diagnostic tool for PG.